precedent (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈprɛsɪdənt/

Definition

An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in later, similar circumstances.

Examples

• This case is a clear precedent for how we should handle similar situations.

• There is no legal precedent for such a drastic measure.

• Her previous success set a precedent for future employees.

How to Use precedent

precedent for (prepositional phrase)

An example or guide for a similar situation. — "There is no precedent for this type of diplomatic crisis."

set a precedent (collocation)

To establish an example or rule for others to follow. — "The company's policy on remote work set a precedent for the industry."

without precedent (collocation)

Something that has never happened or been done before. — "The scale of the disaster was without precedent."

Synonyms of precedent

Words with a similar meaning to precedent:

• example
• model
• criterion
• benchmark
• forerunner

Antonyms of precedent

Words with the opposite meaning to precedent:

• unprecedented
• novelty

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